Siraji SACCO has secured Sh170 million in World Bank-supported financing to boost affordable credit for farmers and MSMEs recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. The funding, channeled through the Kenya Development Corporation (KDC) and structured by AVLC Group, underscores the growing role of cooperatives as vital engines for community-based economic resilience.
Approved under the World Bank’s Safer Fund, the facility was formally handed over during a ceremony in Naivasha on January 23, attended by SACCO leadership, financial consultants, and government officials. The Safer Fund was established to support post-pandemic recovery, identifying SACCOs as strategic partners due to their deep community ties and ability to reach enterprises often excluded by conventional banks.
Speaking at the handover, AVLC Group CEO Andrew Kanyutu said the approval validates the cooperative model’s effectiveness in delivering development finance to the grassroots.
“This journey began two years ago when Siraji SACCO sought our support in sourcing funding for its members,” Kanyutu said. “SACCOs understand their members’ realities. They have the trust and the local presence to monitor impact, making them ideal channels for development funding.”
As transaction advisors, AVLC Group helped Siraji SACCO structure the proposal, ensure compliance, and engage with the World Bank and KDC. Following the handover, the SACCO will fully manage the administration and disbursement of the funds.
Siraji SACCO CEO Felix Ochieng noted that the facility arrives at a critical time for members who suffered severe pandemic-related losses.
“COVID-19 disrupted both our members and the SACCO,” Ochieng said. “We had poultry farmers with 22,000 birds ready for market, but lockdowns halted movement and cancelled contracts. This facility will help such members rebuild and stabilize their operations.”
Founded in 1996 and based in Timau, Siraji SACCO is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. The cooperative has grown from its roots in Laikipia County to a national operation with an asset base nearing Sh1 billion.
Laikipia County Director for Cooperative Development Richard Washira noted that the initiative aligns with government efforts to use cooperatives for inclusive growth. “By working through SACCOs, development funds reach people directly, creating a real impact at the community level,” Washira said.
Siraji SACCO Chairman Franklin Mwirigi emphasized that the funds would be offered at affordable rates to ensure long-term sustainability. “This is patient capital meant to uplift livelihoods. Beyond financing, we are focusing on capacity building to ensure these businesses remain resilient,” he said.
Kanyutu added that AVLC Group has facilitated approximately Sh4 billion in financing under the Safer Fund for 11 SACCOs and related institutions.
“Our role is to bridge the gap between international funders and local institutions by ensuring governance and compliance standards are met,” Kanyutu said.
This milestone follows a similar success in 2025, when AVLC supported Githunguri Dairy and Community SACCO in securing Sh500 million from the same fund, further demonstrating the power of cooperatives to drive inclusive economic recovery across East Africa.
